Helping Children Manage Back-to-School Anxiety

Here at Sunshine Support, anxiety is one of the topics that we come across the most, especially as we approach the start of the new school term. As the days of summer start to fade, the prospect of going back to school in the Autumn term can stir up an enormous mix of emotions for children. For some, the excitement of reuniting with friends and embarking on new learning adventures is palpable. However, for others, the transition can bring about significant anxiety and stress, particularly for neurodivergent children. This shift from the relaxed, carefree summer break to the structured and often unsuitable school environment can be daunting. So, how can parents support their children through this period, and how can schools and professionals play their part in easing this transition? We’ve put together this guide to empower you.

Understanding the Anxiety

Children may feel anxious about returning to school for so many reasons. These reasons can include fear of the unknown, changes in routine, worries about academic performance, social pressures, or issues with the physical environment too – this all falls under ‘school climate‘ which you’ll hear our founder Chrissa speak about often. It’s important to acknowledge that these feelings are valid and to approach them with empathy and understanding.

How Parents Can Support Their Anxious Children

1. Open Communication: Start the conversation early. Encourage your child to express their feelings about going back to school. Ask open-ended questions and listen without judgement. Sometimes, just knowing that their worries are heard can make a significant difference.

2. Establish a Routine: Gradually reintroduce a school-like routine a week or two before school starts. This includes setting regular bedtimes, wake-up times, and meal schedules. A predictable routine can provide a sense of security and make the transition smoother.

3. Visit the School: If possible, arrange a visit to the school before the term begins. Familiarising your child with the environment, including their classroom and playground, can reduce anxiety about the unknown. Meeting their teacher ahead of time can also provide reassurance.

4. Manage Your Own Anxiety: Children often pick up on their parents’ emotions. If you’re calm and positive about the return to school, your child is more likely to mirror these feelings. Practice self-care and seek support if you’re feeling anxious yourself – but also, don’t allow this to be used as a way of parent blaming, this is NOT your fault!

5. Be Your Child’s Safe Person:  Work with your child to develop strategies for handling specific concerns, and listen to them rather than downplaying or dismissing anything.

How Schools and Professionals Can Help With Back To School Anxiety

1. Create a Welcoming Environment: Schools can ensure that the first day back is welcoming and reassuring. Teachers and staff can greet students warmly, offer tours of new areas, and organise ice-breaker activities to help students feel comfortable and connected. Our infographic on School Climate is one that could be really helpful!

2. Encourage Peer Support: Implement buddy systems where older or more confident students support those who are anxious or new. Peer support can be incredibly effective in helping children feel included and less isolated.

3. Professional Support Services: Schools should promote the availability of counsellors or pastoral care staff. These professionals can provide additional support for children who need it and work with teachers to identify and address signs of anxiety early. Struggling to get the professionals on board? This is where we can help – get in touch with us to discuss your next steps during a 30 minute free call, sign up for our advocacy services, and join our online Sunshine Academy for the best support!

4. Regular Check-ins: Teachers can conduct regular check-ins with students to discuss their well-being and any concerns they might have. This can be done informally through casual conversations or more formally through structured activities.

5. Flexible Learning Approaches: Recognise that some children may need a more flexible approach, particularly neurodivergent pupils in mainstream settings. Allowing for gradual integration, offering quieter spaces, or providing alternative activities can help children adjust at their own pace and in a way that they are comfortable with.

6. Parent-Teacher Collaboration: Maintaining open lines of communication between parents and teachers is crucial. Regular updates and mutual support can ensure that any issues are promptly addressed, and consistent strategies are used both at home and at school.

Watch Chrissa discussing ‘The Return To School’…

In this video Chrissa discusses going back to school and the difficulties this can raise for children with SEND – we’re sure that you’ll find it enlightening!

Join our Back To School Anxiety Webinar

In this workshop, the fantastic BACP accredited counsellor and anxiety specialist Ange McMillan will share expert strategies to help support you and your child when navigating this tricky time. This is a seriously popular webinar so we encourage you to book quickly!

The session will cover the important following aspects of Back To School Anxiety:

RSD, PDA & Trauma

Returning To School Anxiety

Neurodivergence & Sexuality